I did not grow up thinking salsa would become such an important part of my life.
I found it the way many people do: by stepping into something new, not fully knowing what I was getting into. At first, I struggled. But I kept coming back. Over time, salsa became more than dance. It became community, joy, healing, and a way to reconnect with myself and with others.
As I traveled, met dancers from around the world, and saw how powerful this culture can be, one thing became clear to me: salsa deserves to be preserved, supported, and passed on.
That is why I am helping build RISE San Antonio.
RISE exists because this music, this dance, and this community have changed lives—including mine. We are creating something bigger than an event. We are building a home for education, preservation, wellness, and cultural memory so that future generations can experience what so many of us have found on the dance floor.
If salsa has ever given you joy, confidence, friendship, or belonging, I hope you will help us build this.
